Staphylococcus aureus ALD1

Staphylococcus aureus ALD1 (Alanine Dehydrogenase 1) is an enzyme of Staphylococcus aureus, a common Gram-positive bacterium that causes a range of infections from skin abscesses to severe systemic diseases (e.g., sepsis). ALD1 catalyzes the reversible conversion of alanine to pyruvate, ammonia, and NADH, playing a role in bacterial nitrogen metabolism and energy production. This metabolic function is critical for Staphylococcus aureus survival, especially in nitrogen-limited environments (e.g., host tissues). ALD1 also contributes to bacterial virulence by regulating the production of other virulence factors or by modulating the host's immune response-studies suggest it may influence inflammation or phagocytosis by immune cells. While its immunogenicity is not as well-studied as other Staphylococcus aureus antigens, ALD1's role in essential metabolism and virulence makes it a potential target for anti-staphylococcal drugs. Inhibiting ALD1 may disrupt bacterial nitrogen metabolism and energy production, reducing infectivity and survival.